Booking & Cancellation policies
To confirm your reservation, you are required to provide a credit or debit card. The reservation will be charged on the day of your check-in.
Cancellations:
In the case of a Covid-19, or any other pandemic, endemic, virus or disease, or any related global or Panamanian travel bans occurring during the Event dates, an 18-month credit note will be issued. All monies received are non-refundable.
If the guests cannot travel and need to cancel due to a Positive Covid-19 Test, or any other virus or travel banning disease, no refund or transfer will be applied. We recommend travelers to be mindful 2 weeks prior to traveling.
If Alaya Panama needs to cancel the reservation for any reason beyond our control. Every effort will be made to refund recoverable costs to the guests. In case of cancellation, Alaya Panama will not be held accountable for any expenses incurred in preparation for the travel such as airline tickets, loss of work, and/or other costs associated with preparing the vacation.
We abide by our cancellation policies and recommend travelers to purchase travel insurance.
Transportation & Access
How can I get to Alaya from Panama City?
By Car
Rent a car in Panama City starting at approximately $30/day.
Use Waze (there are a lot of police checking for speed limit on the road). Select Alaya Panama. We recommend traveling through Pedasi instead of Flores.
The entire travel will take you around 6hrs (350km) with $20-$35 approximate fuel cost.
We recommend renting a car with Autos Panama.
By Shuttles via Playa Venao
There are three shuttle service providers from/to Panama City – Playa Venao.
My Pink Bus: VIP shuttle to/from Panama City – Playa Venao. Travels every day except Saturdays.
Venao Tours: Offers daily shuttles leaving both Panama City/Tocumen PTY airport and Venao
Beach Break Shuttle: Offers shuttles leaving Playa Venao to Panama City. They also offer private shuttles upon request.
Shuttles will drop you at Playa Venao and we can come and pick you up there.
A private shuttle or car will cost you anywhere between $120-$200 – message us to book it for you.
How can I get to Venao from Alaya?
Alaya offers complimentary beach shuttles at the following hours:
11 am / 3 pm / 5 pm
Shuttles at different times are available with a charge.
Is there a gas station or electric charges?
The closest gas station and electric vehicle charging stations are located at Playa Venao – 8 km from Alaya.
Is there an ATM?
The closest ATM is located at Playa Venao – 8 km from Alaya.
Is there a car park on-site?
Yes, we have ample free parking on site.
Whether you seek a private car, taxi, or helicopter, our guest relations team can assist you with all your transportation needs. Please contact us via email at reception@alayapanama.com
Alaya packing list (what to bring – and what not to bring)
Special food request & food allergies
Our hotel has special foods for guests who have food allergies, our team will gladly do everything possible to assist you with your needs.
If possible, please inform us of any dietary requirements prior to your arrival. In this way, we can ensure that we meet your expectations.
In addition to a delicious vegetarian option in our menu, there are also enticing vegan courses at our restaurant. If possible, please inform us of any dietary requirements prior to your arrival. In this way, we can ensure that we meet your expectations.
Check in & Check out
What time is check-in and check-out?
Check-in time is from 3pm and check-out time is at 11am.
On your day of departure please vacate your room on time and settle your extras account at reception. If you want to check in earlier or stay a bit later, please ask at reception (subject to availability) and we will do our best to accommodate you.
Internet & Cell Service
Yes, we have in every room and common areas.
Do you have cell service?
We do have cell service, the best connection in the area is with TIGO.
Kids policy
Pets policy
Weather
In Cañas, the rainy season (May to November) is characterized by hot, cloudy weather, while the dry season (December to April) brings very hot, windy, and partly cloudy conditions. Temperatures typically range from 24°C to 31°C, rarely falling below 23°C or exceeding 33°C.
Panama is a tropical country, so encountering bugs is inevitable, but it’s not as bad as you might expect. With the right precautions, you’ll be fine. Sand flies (locally known as chitras) can be bothersome on some beaches, especially during the rainy season, and are most active at dawn and dusk. To protect yourself, using insect repellent with 30-50% DEET and wearing long sleeves and pants will help minimize exposure.
Staff gratuities
Staff gratuities are not included in the price and are entirely at your discretion. We encourage you to tip what feels comfortable and fair for the general staff, wellness instructors, and spa therapists. In Panama, a guideline to consider is tipping between 10%, 15%, or 20% of your total bill.
DOCTORS & PHARMACY
Is there a hospital or doctor in the area?
For emergencies, the nearest health center is 20 minutes away in Tonosi. A doctor is also available for house calls in Playa Venao, just 8 km from Alaya. Additionally, there’s a pharmacy in Cañas, only 3 minutes away, and a 24-hour pharmacy located in Playa Venao.
WATER
Our water, sourced from on-site wells and filtered for purity, is safe to drink. Ice is available at the bar, and you’re welcome to bring your own water bottle or purchase an Alaya bottle from the restaurant or reception.
Every room is equipped with hot water for your comfort.
SAFETY
Cañas is a very safe and secure town, but we recommend storing your valuables in the room safe for added peace of mind. The property is gated, and owners live on-site with staff available 24/7 to assist in case of an emergency. You’re welcome to explore the town, where the locals are friendly and welcoming.
LAUNDRY SERVICE
We offer laundry service for $15 per load. A laundry bag is available at the reception. Please note that all items will be washed and dried together in one load; we do not offer hang drying. Please talk to reception to coordinate.
CURRENCY
The currency of Panama is the USD, and there are no currency exchange facilities in the area. Most businesses accept credit cards, though some smaller establishments may apply a fee for their use.
ELECTRICITY
Power outages are common in the area, but we have a generator to handle such situations. Please be aware that when power is restored, it may take a few seconds or minutes for the A/C, WiFi, and lights to come back on, as our voltage protectors ensure the safety of the appliances.
FAN OR A/C
Every dome is appointed with a/c.
COWORKING
For those seeking a private workspace, we offer a coworking area at the following rates:
